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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 1, 2009

Governor Quinn Names Key Education Council “Race to the Top” for Federal Funds Starts With New P-20 Panel

CHICAGO – December 1, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn today made 23 appointments to the P-20 Council, a key advisory panel that will make recommendations to the Governor about strengthening our education system. The P-20 (pre-school through graduate school) Council will play an instrumental role in Illinois’ quest to win approximately $400 million in federal “Race to the Top” discretionary funds.

“With these appointments, Illinois is sending a strong signal to Washington that a top-notch education for all students is a foremost priority,” said Governor Quinn. “This council will recommend improvements that will make our education system the best it can be, while ensuring Illinois is at the head of the class when it comes to winning those important federal ‘Race to the Top’ funds.”

The U.S. Department of Education “Race to the Top” is a $4.35 billion competitive grant process focused on innovative approaches to education. Illinois could receive approximately $400 million in discretionary funds made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

The 23 appointments made by the Governor include business leaders, teachers, parents, civic groups, university, community colleges and school officials. There are four legislative members on the council and six ex-officio members from state agencies. The appointments include Chicago City Clerk Miguel del Valle, who will serve as Chair. (Background Information)

“The P-20 Council will bring a diverse group of accomplished individuals who will share information and ideas that will help our state develop educational strategies for the 21st Century,” said Governor Quinn. “That approach will be crucial to Illinois’ bid for federal ‘Race to the Top’ funds.”

Governor Quinn was joined by Dr. Chris Koch, Illinois State Board of Education Superintendent and a P-20 Council ex-officio member; Rep. Barbara Flynn Currie (D-Chicago); and Rep. Jerry Mitchell (R-Sterling).